Pickett State Park is probably not the first place anyone will immediately think of when visiting Tennessee. I know there are more popular state parks like Fall Creek Falls and Radnor Lake, but I got intrigued when I heard that Pickett has glow worms and a Dark Sky Park status.
I also learned that it’s a great place to visit for its unique geological formations and sandstone cliffs. Basically, it has everything that I didn’t want to miss while in Tennessee.
So, if you’re interested in what went down in my Pickett State Park adventure, keep reading. You might get a few ideas that can make your own visit there worthwhile.
Hazard Cave Trail: Chasing Glow Worms and Cliffside Views
I did mention glow worms, and I didn’t even know they were real. I thought I could only find them in cozy games with fishing mechanics, like Palia and Stardew Valley, that I’d play occasionally.
So, when I was figuring out which trail to hike in Pickett, it had to be the one that would lead me to the Hazard Cave. It was a 1.5-mile loop trail, and the whole hike gave me a glimpse of how stunning Pickett State Park is.
The trail started off with a gentle incline, meandering through a shaded forest with towering trees and vibrant wildflowers. As I hiked further, the trail became steeper and rockier, with some sections requiring a bit of scrambling.
Before entering the cave, I remember thinking that it probably had some sort of lake or bodies of water where the glow worms lived, but apparently, not.
At first, my surroundings were only dark, and I could feel that the place was damp. But as my eyes adjusted to the dim light, that’s when I saw them. They’re like tiny pinpricks of light scattered across the cave’s ceiling and walls.
One of the people there shared a bit of trivia. They said that the glow worms are also called fungus gnats, and they emit a bioluminescent light to attract prey. The effect was mesmerizing like a starry night sky brought down to earth.
Dark Sky Park: Starry Starry Night
I spent a good while in the Hazar Cave because I didn’t want the magical feeling to end. I had to go since I wanted to see more of Pickett. Since I still had a few hours of daylight left, I decided to check the waterways.
I rented a kayak from the visitor center and set off on Pickett State Lake. It was a peaceful experience. I shared the water with a few tourists, but it was still generally quiet. I made sure to dock just before it got dark.
I headed to the Astronomy Field, which is a designated area for stargazing. I spread out a blanket on the grassy field and settled in for a night of celestial wonders.
As darkness enveloped the park, the stars began to emerge, one by one. The sky transformed into a breathtaking canvas of twinkling lights, and I felt a sense of awe and wonder wash over me. I gazed at the constellations and reminded myself how big the universe is.
Some campers there say there are nights when shooting stars can be seen, but I didn’t spot any. Your best shot of seeing them is in August and December. But even without the shooting stars, the night sky in Pickett State Park was like no other.
Tips for Visiting Pickett State Park
Here are some things I’d like to share to make your Pickett State Park visit better:
- Explore Beyond the Trails: While hiking is a must-do in Pickett, don’t miss out on the park’s other offerings. Rent a kayak, try your luck at fishing, or simply relax by the campfire and enjoy the sounds of nature.
- Embrace the Darkness: Bring a blanket, lie down under the stars, and marvel at the constellations and the Milky Way. Bring your special someone because it’s going to be a romantic camping trip.
- Capture the Memories: Don’t forget to bring your camera (or your phone) to capture the beauty of the park.
Pickett State Park is Simply a Must-Visit
Honestly, the Hazard Cave alone makes Pickett State Park such a great destination. For me, it was just a bonus that there are plenty of natural wonders to see. I won’t forget about those glow worms. They’re so… magical.
Then of course, stargazers will surely love the place, so I do recommend staying there overnight. If you can’t, you can make your visit worthwhile by hiking on different trails. You’ll be exhausted but it will be worth it.
Pickett State Park – FAQs
Are there any restrictions on pets in the park?
Your furry friend is welcome at Pickett State Park! Just make sure to keep them on a leash at all times and clean up after them. You can even take your dog on some of the trails but do check the park’s regulations for any restrictions.
What are the camping and cabin options like in Pickett State Park?
Pickett State Park offers a variety of camping and cabin options to suit different needs and budgets. You can choose from primitive campsites, RV sites with hookups, and cozy cabins with modern amenities.
What are the best spots in the park for observing the night sky?
Pickett State Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, meaning it has minimal light pollution and offers exceptional opportunities for stargazing. Head to the open fields near the visitor center or the cliff tops for the best views of the night sky. Don’t forget to bring a blanket and a flashlight!
